Mold in My Apartment: What Should I Do?

Discovering mold as a tenant in an apartment can be concerning, but it’s important to address the issue methodically to resolve it effectively and within proper guidelines. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this situation as a renter.

As a tenant, you should avoid undertaking any work that could alter the building, such as demolitions or invasive inspections. These tasks fall under your landlord’s responsibility, and proceeding with them could not only worsen the situation but also lead to legal complications.

How to Prove the Presence of Mold in an Apartment?

As soon as you discover mold in your apartment, the first step is to notify your landlord. It is their responsibility to ensure the unit is safe and to take the necessary measures for mold removal. This legal obligation is in place to guarantee that the living space meets health and safety standards.

In some cases, a landlord may hesitate to take action or question the presence of mold in your apartment, often due to a lack of information. Here are a few steps you can take to assess the situation and support your claims without altering the building:

• Measure Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to check the ambient humidity in your apartment. If suspicious stains are visible on the walls, for instance, a humidity meter applied directly to these areas can confirm the presence of excessive moisture, a common cause of mold growth.
• Clean the Stains: You can also clean any suspicious stains you notice. If they reappear a few days or weeks later in the same spot, it is likely mold rather than just dirt.
• Document Everything: Take photos of the affected areas, note your observations, and keep a record of your communication with your landlord.

What to Do if Your Landlord Refuses to Act on Mold in the Apartment?

If your landlord continues to refuse action even after you’ve taken these steps, you can file a complaint or seek assistance to ensure the issue is addressed.

For the Montreal, Laval, and Longueuil areas

• Call 311, a tenant support portal. You will be directed to the appropriate department for your situation to initiate a request for assistance.
• Explain the situation with your landlord and the condition of your apartment, and an inspector may be sent to your unit to assess the problem.
• As a last resort, if your case is not followed up or addressed, contact the Ombudsman of your region to ensure your case is properly handled:
  • Ombudsman de Montréal
  • Ombudsman de Laval
  • Bureau du protecteur du citoyen de Longueuil

For all other regions

• Submit your request for assistance directly to the Tribunal administratif du logement (commonly known as the Régie du logement). This body specializes in managing conflicts between tenants and landlords.

The presence of mold in an apartment is not just an aesthetic issue: it can have serious health implications for you and your family. By following these steps, you ensure not only your well-being but also the protection of your rights as a tenant. If you have any concerns or other questions, don’t hesitate to contact the appropriate services for further support. EcoRenov: Your trusted partner for mold removal.